Review: Branded (The Rogues, #1) by Jenika Snow

Branded by Jenika Snow
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Set in a world where humanoid aliens, known as Rogues, have established dominion over Earth, this novel takes readers on a thrilling journey as Greta, a human in hiding, encounters Tolcan, an enforcer for the Rogues.

In a society where humans are seen as inferior and subjected to labor or forced breeding, Greta's fear of being discovered is ever-present. When Tolcan, assigned to capturing humans, sets his eyes on Greta, something primal and possessive stirs within him. Going against the beliefs of his kind, he claims her as his own, defying the consequences that may follow.

Snow masterfully builds a world where tension and desire intertwine, drawing readers into the complex relationship between Greta and Tolcan. The chemistry between the two characters is palpable, and their connection unfolds in a series of passionate encounters that explore themes of dominance, submission, and desire. While the novel does contain explicit scenes, it also offers a semblance of a plot that adds depth to the story.

What sets the book apart from other erotic novels is its ability to weave together a compelling narrative within the confines of the genre. The author skillfully balances the erotic elements with an engaging storyline, keeping readers intrigued and invested in the fate of the characters. The exploration of power dynamics and the gradual development of an emotional bond between Greta and Tolcan adds a layer of complexity to the narrative, elevating it beyond mere erotica.

Although the novel can be crude at times, it manages to maintain a semblance of plot, offering readers an enjoyable and immersive reading experience. Snow's descriptive prose and attention to detail create a vivid and imaginative world, allowing readers to escape into a realm where desire and danger coexist.

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Review: Candles in the Wood by Anne Rundle

Candles in the Wood by Anne Rundle
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Helen Comyn, a heiress, returns to her childhood home of Gallowmerry but she has returned a very different person than she was when she left. She is no longer the child of a servant in the manor, she can hold her own among the elite. But some feelings haven't changed, like those she had for Lennox Grant.

I loved the tension and uncertainty Helen faced when she came back to the manor. Her position was completely reversed from how it was when she left but the past catches up and not everyone could forget what she once was.

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ARC Review: The Wedding Guest by Kathryn Croft

The Wedding Guest by Kathryn Croft
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Note: I received an advanced copy of this book from Bookouture via NetGalley.

In the midst of the anticipation surrounding her impending marriage, Emily harbors a truth that threatens to upend the life she's about to commit to. When an unexpected presence among her cherished guests, seated amidst those who hold her dearest, this uninvited figure possesses knowledge of a harrowing event that transpired a decade ago. This person, who seems determined to deny her any happiness, holds the power to expose her deepest secrets. The realization dawns that her past, no matter how fervently she tries to escape it, continues to haunt her.

The question is how to thwart an adversary who appears relentless in their mission to dismantle the life she's worked so hard to construct. And in the face of this relentless pursuit, she must grapple with the lengths she's willing to go to safeguard her carefully guarded secrets.

I found the initial sections of the book far more engaging than its conclusion, particularly in regard to Emily's interactions with Jeremy and Lexi. As the narrative progressed towards its finale, I noticed a sense of rushed pacing, and the ending struck me as somewhat strange.

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ARC Review: Scenes of the Crime by Jilly Gagnon

Scenes of the Crime by Jilly Gagnon
My rating: 2 of 5 stars

Note: I received an advanced copy of this book from Random House Publishing Group via NetGalley.

A locked-room mystery, a determined screenwriter takes it upon herself to uncover the truth behind her friend's baffling disappearance. Set against the backdrop of a remote winery on the Oregon coast, this thrilling story follows Emily Fischer and her group of friends as they attempt to unravel the enigma surrounding Vanessa Morales' vanishing. Vanessa was the heart of the group, and her unexplained absence has haunted them all.

Years later, Emily stumbles upon someone who could be Vanessa's look-alike, sparking her resolve to tell Vanessa's story and unearth the truth of that haunting night. With a brilliant plan in mind, Emily orchestrates a reunion weekend under the pretense of reconnecting. As the group reconvenes, secrets start to unravel. Among the friends - including Vanessa's cousin Brittany, strong-willed Paige, and introverted Lydia - lies the key to understanding what truly happened. Emily must navigate a web of hidden truths and confront her own memories to uncover the reality of that fateful night.

The overall plot line of the story seemed to take an unusual and almost unbelievable turn, which left me feeling quite puzzled and disconnected from the narrative. The progression of events felt rather unusual and even bordering on the absurd, which made it challenging for me to fully engage with the story.

Additionally, the scenes involving screenwriting appeared to lack a certain level of authenticity or resonance. These moments didn't seem to seamlessly integrate with the rest of the story, and at times, they felt out of place or disconnected. As a result, these scenes didn't manage to capture my interest as I had hoped they would, contributing to my sense of disconnect from the overall narrative.

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Review: Captives of the Night (Scoundrels, #2) by Loretta Chase

Captives of the Night by Loretta Chase
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Leila Beaumont has been living her life as she sees fit. Her husband is worthless but with him she is able to get by and she allows him to partake of his own pleasures. But with the appearance of the Comte d'Esmond her life is once again thrown into chaos.

I do like a book where a villain can become a hero. The story once again started off slow in my opinion and didn't really get going until a ways through. I thought the story from the first book in the series was more captivating than this one but I did like the characters a lot more. They seemed fuller and more developed.

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Review: Cliffside Castle by Dorothy Daniels

Cliffside Castle by Dorothy Daniels
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Nancy Furnivall, having experienced sudden and mysterious deaths that have left her without family, is faced with the daunting task of uncovering a hidden killer before they claim more lives. Determined and alone, Nancy must navigate a treacherous path to unveil the identity of the murderer and put an end to their deadly spree. The stakes are high as she races against time to prevent further tragedy and bring justice to those who have been lost.

I absolutely love gothic romances with all of the mystery and the strong female characters. Dorothy Daniels is an amazing author who incorporates an unforgettable story with amazing characters.

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Review: Arise by Tara Hudson

Arise by Tara Hudson
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Amelia finds herself in a dangerous situation as dark spirits pose a threat to her loved ones. Determined to protect them, she resolves to take action. Meanwhile, Joshua, with his own motivations, agrees to meet Amelia at a cemetery in New Orleans. Together, they plan to partake in a significant ritual within the Voodoo Circle, fully aware that this decision will have lasting and transformative consequences.

While I found some aspects of the book engaging, it didn't quite live up to my expectations. One aspect that I appreciated was the continuation of the paranormal elements and the exploration of the ghostly world. The concept of ghostly abilities and the interaction between the living and the dead were intriguing and added depth to the story. The author's descriptive writing style helped to create a vivid atmosphere, immersing me in the supernatural world.

However, I felt that the pacing was inconsistent throughout the book. At times, the story moved at a slow pace, making it difficult to stay fully engaged. Additionally, I found some plot developments to be predictable, which diminished the element of surprise. I had hoped for more twists and turns to keep me on the edge of my seat.

Character development was another aspect that left me wanting more. While some characters showed growth and had compelling arcs, others felt underdeveloped and lacked depth. I would have liked to see more exploration of their motivations and inner struggles.

Despite its flaws, the book still provided an entertaining read.

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ARC Review: The Scarlet Veil (The Scarlet Veil, #1) by Shelby Mahurin

The Scarlet Veil by Shelby Mahurin
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Note: I received an advanced copy of this book from HarperCollins Children's Books via NetGalley.

Six months after Célie embraced her sacred vows and became a huntswoman among the Chasseurs, she strives to establish her place alongside her fiancé, Captain Jean Luc. As they both work to safeguard their realm of Belterra, echoes of her past linger, and a fresh malevolence emerges, one that Célie must confront to prevent succumbing to its darkness.

I did not know this was a spinoff series, so I was quite confused when I started the book. However, I felt the author did an excellent job of explaining what had happened without the reader needing to read the previous series.

The protagonist, Celie, stood out to me, not as a typical weak character despite moments of self-doubt. Her true strength emerged through her bonds with friends. Although I had reservations about Michal initially, the author masterfully crafted a blend of tension and captivating moments between Celie and Michal when they were in each other's company.

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ARC Review: The Hike by Lucy Clarke

The Hike by Lucy Clarke
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Note: I received an advanced copy of this book from PENGUIN GROUP Putnam via NetGalley.

Maggie, Liz, Helena, and Joni, old friends with a shared history of adventures and hidden secrets, embark on a hiking trip in the enchanting Norwegian wilderness. Amidst towering mountains, serene lakes, and picturesque cabins, they find themselves entwined in a murder mystery as a lifeless body is discovered in a ravine. In the midst of the breathtaking landscape, a sinister presence lurks, and the friends become entangled in a dangerous pursuit to uncover the truth behind the woman's death.

Contrary to my initial expectations, this book took me on a surprising journey. The author's use of different character viewpoints added a unique layer to the story. Among the cast, Maggie stood out as my personal favorite. She embodied the underdog archetype, and I found myself genuinely invested in her journey, rooting for her every step of the way.

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Review: The Carrie Diaries (The Carrie Diaries, #1) by Candace Bushnell

The Carrie Diaries by Candace Bushnell
My rating: 2 of 5 stars

"The Carrie Diaries" delves into the earlier years of Carrie Bradshaw, before she became a renowned social observer in the City. Set in her senior year of high school in suburban Connecticut, the story follows Carrie and her tight-knit group of friends, including Walt, Lali, Maggie, and the Mouse. Amidst the typical high school dynamics of popular Jens, jocks, and the privileged Jets, a new presence enters Carrie's life: Sebastian Kydd.

Sebastian is an intriguing and unpredictable older bad boy who captivates Carrie's attention. She embarks on the relationship she had always dreamed of having during her high school years. However, when a friend's betrayal shakes her world, Carrie begins to question everything she thought she knew. As her days in high school draw to a close, Carrie realizes it's time to pursue her deepest desires and go after everything she has ever wanted. This coming-of-age story unveils the transformative journey that shapes Carrie Bradshaw into the iconic figure she becomes.

Not as exciting as the whole Sex and the City exploits. Even though this IS a teen drama book I got fed up with all of the whining and ridiculous attitude of the characters. Maybe I am just getting too old to deal with this crap but it was overly much for me.

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Review: Haveli by Suzanne Fisher Staples

Haveli by Suzanne Fisher Staples
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

In this powerful novel, we follow the courageous journey of Shabanu, a young Pakistani woman, as she confronts the oppressive grip of societal customs and ancient laws. At the age of 18 and a mother, Shabanu must navigate the complexities of her husband's household, constantly facing obstacles that threaten her position and autonomy. As she dreams of a better future for her daughter, she finds herself entangled in a forbidden love with Omar, defying the traditions that seek to separate them. Amidst the challenges and complexities, Shabanu's unwavering determination and love push her to defy societal expectations and fight for her own happiness.

I was so intrigued by the first book that despite not having to read it in middle school, like the first one, I wanted to continue on with the story. By the end, I liked the book a lot more than I had at the beginning.

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Review: Crescendo (Hush, Hush, #2) by Becca Fitzpatrick

Crescendo by Becca Fitzpatrick
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

In Nora Grey's life, challenges persist despite her encounter with a guardian angel who saved her from danger. Patch, her enigmatic and attractive guardian angel, has been behaving strangely, growing more elusive and spending time with her nemesis, Marcie Millar. As Nora tries to make sense of Patch's distant behavior, the return of Scott Parnell, an old family friend, further complicates her emotions. Although Scott's infuriating attitude draws her in, she can't shake the feeling that he's hiding something.

Haunted by visions of her deceased father, Nora begins to question whether her Nephilim heritage played a role in his murder. Determined to uncover the truth, she risks her safety by delving into dangerous situations. However, as she gets closer to the truth, she realizes that some secrets are best left buried, as they have the power to destroy everything and everyone she holds dear.

I did find the story entertaining with the progression of the facts. Other than that the story did not really do anything for me.  This book did not intrigue me as much as the first one. I felt myself just being annoyed with all of the characters. Nora was her usual whiny self with an annoying attitude and a self-serving attitude. Patch just pissed me off from the beginning I wanted to okay his reasons but he was just a jerk throughout everything. No one communicates with one another and they all just make everything worse for everyone in the long run. If Patch and Nora would actually talk to each other many of their problems really wouldn't be an issue.

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Review: Shabanu: Daughter of the Wind by Suzanne Fisher Staples

Shabanu: Daughter of the Wind by Suzanne Fisher Staples
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

"Shabanu" is a captivating novel that portrays the contrasting aspects of life experienced by the determined and independent young protagonist, Shabanu, in the Cholistan Desert of Pakistan. As the second daughter in a family without sons, Shabanu enjoys certain liberties uncommon for Muslim girls. However, when a devastating incident involving a wealthy landowner disrupts her sister's marriage prospects, Shabanu is faced with a difficult choice: to uphold her family's honor or follow the desires of her own heart. The novel explores themes of sacrifice, tradition, and individuality in a thought-provoking manner.

During my middle school years, I came across this captivating book that delved into the restrictions imposed on girls, which greatly fascinated me. "Shabanu" presented a unique narrative that I hadn't encountered before, offering an intriguing perspective. However, there were instances where I felt the story progressed too quickly, leaving me wanting more depth and exploration. Nonetheless, it was an engaging read that shed light on the limitations faced by young girls and provided an unforgettable reading experience.

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Review: Catch Me If You Can: The True Story of a Real Fake by Frank W. Abagnale

Catch Me If You Can: The True Story of a Real Fake by Frank W. Abagnale
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Frank W. Abagnale, known by various aliases such as Frank Williams, Robert Conrad, Frank Adams, and Robert Monjo, earned a reputation as one of history's boldest con men, forgers, impostors, and escape artists. Despite his short-lived yet infamous career, Abagnale accomplished remarkable feats. He assumed the identity of a pilot, co-piloting a Pan Am jet, posed as a supervising hospital resident, practiced law without a license, impersonated a college sociology professor, and successfully cashed forged checks totaling over $2.5 million, all before the age of 21.

Dubbed "The Skywayman" by law enforcement in 26 foreign countries and all 50 US states, Abagnale led a lavish life while constantly evading capture. However, his luck eventually ran out, and he was apprehended by the authorities. Today, Abagnale is recognized as America's foremost expert on financial fraud. Despite his criminal past, he is a charismatic rogue whose extraordinary and often amusing international escapades.

I thought this book had a good concept and I liked the author's writing style. The story plotline as a whole kept me entertained and interested while the characters were catchy.

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ARC Review: The Marriage Retreat by Laura Elliot

The Marriage Retreat by Laura Elliot
My rating: 2 of 5 stars

Note: I received an advanced copy of this book from Bookouture via NetGalley.

In the mortuary, I brace myself as I prepare to identify the body of the man I've been married to for over two decades. Together, Victor and I built Serenity Falls, a thriving couples' retreat founded on principles of trust and openness, which also defined our marriage. Guiding couples toward healing was our shared mission.

Now, my world has been upended. In the wake of Victor's death, I'm confronted with a woman lying in a hospital room, comatose. She had been with Victor when he passed away. Struggling to identify her, I'm forced to confront the unsettling realization that my husband held secrets. My grief morphs into anger as I grapple with his deception. How could he keep such things from me?

Delving into Victor's hidden past, I unearth the startling truth about the mysterious woman without a name or memory. The journey unravels a web of secrets, leading me to make a crucial decision to safeguard my family.

This book was engaging at the start, but the narrative loses its momentum as it progresses. Unfortunately, I struggled to form a connection with any of the characters, which subsequently diminished my investment in their fates.

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Review: Atlantis Vortex by Sultry Summers

Atlantis Vortex by Sultry Summers
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Archaeologist Jessica Carter stumbles upon an ancient Egyptian pyramid in an unexpected location: Lake Okeechobee, Florida. As she delves into the excavation, Jessica faces life-threatening incidents and encounters a mysterious figure who appears and disappears at will. Little does she know that Xerxes, the High Lord of Atlantis, has been secretly watching over her since he saved her and her family years ago. With the discovery of the pyramid, Xerxes must protect the secrecy of his underwater realm, leading to drastic measures and the burial of the excavation site. Jessica, resigned to losing her discovery, finds herself recalled to active duty in the Navy. However, she receives a clue that could unravel the enigma she has uncovered, and she embarks on a pursuit while counting on Xerxes to guide her. As memories of her past with Xerxes resurface, Jessica realizes her love for him. But their happiness is threatened by a traitor within Xerxes' council, endangering Atlantis and Jessica's life. Xerxes must decide between securing his kingdom or saving his wife, with the help of his brother and an off-world ambassador. Will Xerxes be able to save both his underwater kingdom and the woman he loves from the treacherous plot?

I love a good Atlantis story! I would recommend it to fans of sci-fi romance who appreciate a blend of adventure and mythology. The writing style was very detailed at some points, however, the intricate details were essential for following the numerous plot twists. The book, while being slow at some points was en enjoyable read.

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Review: Promise Me Forever by Janelle Taylor

Promise Me Forever by Janelle Taylor
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Rachel McCandless, widowed multiple times before the age of twenty-two, finds herself burdened by the reputation of being a "Black Widow." In her latest marriage, she is determined to uncover the truth about her husband's life. Amidst this challenge, she must also navigate her complicated relationship with Daniel Slade, her husband's estranged brother.

Despite enjoying this book, I found it to be a lengthy and meandering story. However, I was intrigued to witness how the protagonist resolved her numerous challenges, embraced love, and opened her heart to someone new. The overall storyline held my interest, but I felt that a significant portion of the book was filled with unnecessary content that didn't advance the plot. Rachel's character evoked sympathy.

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ARC Review: Suddenly a Murder by Lauren Muñoz

Suddenly a Murder by Lauren Muñoz
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Note: I received an advanced copy of this book from PENGUIN GROUP Penguin Young Readers Group via NetGalley.

If an eye for an eye makes the whole world blind, be sure your eye is taken last.

To celebrate the end of high school, Izzy Morales and her close friend Kassidy, along with five others, embark on a 1920s-themed getaway at the lavish Ashwood Manor. Amidst vintage dresses and opulent diamonds, their festivities take a dark turn when Kassidy's boyfriend is discovered dead.

Declared a murder by investigators, the atmosphere at the manor becomes tense as every guest becomes a potential suspect. Among them, the profoundly enamored girlfriend, the desolate acquaintance, the melancholic old friend, the distressed newcomer, and the enigmatic presence, all fall under suspicion. And then, there's Izzy—the one who brought the knife!

In the midst of the looming suspicion, a grueling interrogation ensues as they remain confined within the estate. As innocence becomes the most valuable currency, the journey to unmask the murderer unfolds against the backdrop of this luxurious yet treacherous setting.

I'm quite fond of intriguing mystery novels, especially those that unfold in the midst of an ancient mansion nestled on a remote island. Izzy's character struck me as quite amusing; her demeanor resonated with a journalist's curiosity. The beauty of this situation is that every individual seems to possess a compelling reason, and the camaraderie within the group might not be as solid as it appears to the investigating authorities.

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ARC Review: Beneath the Surface by Kaira Rouda

Beneath the Surface by Kaira Rouda
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

3.5 Stars

Note: I received an advanced copy of this book from Thomas & Mercer via NetGalley.

A wealthy family gathers on Catalina Island following an invitation from billionaire CEO Richard Kingsley. The purpose is to secure their futures and gain control over a real estate empire, leading to a succession battle among his sons and their wives. Sibley, Richard's estranged daughter, adds a surprising twist to the event. As the contest for the Kingsley legacy intensifies, the idyllic atmosphere of the island contrasts with the escalating tensions and deceptions within the family. With money, lies, and deception at play, the weekend unfolds as a high-stakes game where one member stands to gain while another risks losing everything. Amidst a brewing storm, the family's plans could easily go awry.

In this novel, imagine a dysfunctional family saga set against the backdrop of a luxurious yacht. The initial half of the book brims with captivating family dynamics, adding a generous dash of tension and intrigue. However, as the story progresses, the family drama takes on a life of its own, verging into the realm of overwhelming.

By the time the conclusion approached, the narrative took an unexpected turn, delving into territories that stretched the bounds of believability. While the story's outset was engaging, the culmination seemed to take a detour into the realms of the implausible and downright outrageous.

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Review: The Courtship Dance (The Matchmaker #4) by Candace Camp

The Courtship Dance by Candace Camp
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Lady Francesca Haughston, an experienced matchmaker, reluctantly agrees to help Sinclair, Duke of Rochford, find a suitable wife after realizing she was deceived into breaking off their own engagement years ago. Convinced that any lingering passion between them has faded, Francesca believes her role is purely platonic. However, as Sinclair's lessons in love become more intimate, Francesca finds herself irresistibly drawn to him, even though she fears the consequences of their forbidden connection. Their journey through lessons in love is filled with scandal, temptation, and the potential for their lives to be forever changed.

I have a soft spot for recurring characters in a series, so I was excited to delve into the story of Francesca and Sinclair in the Matchmakers series. While it may not be the strongest installment, my fondness for Francesca's character enhanced my overall enjoyment.  Francesca's character underwent a love-hate journey for me throughout the story. She showcased strength and independence in her efforts to be self-reliant, which I admired given her past experiences. However, her lack of faith in Sinclair, especially after repeating past mistakes, left me wanting to shake some sense into her. The communication issues between Francesca and Sinclair were some of the most frustrating I've encountered between a hero and heroine. Their misunderstandings stemmed from their inability to effectively communicate, resulting in them interpreting situations differently and growing apart.

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Review: Return to Bloodstone House by Jane Toombs

Return to Bloodstone House by Jane Toombs
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Valora Rolland returns to her family's ancestral manor and confronts the dark secrets of the past. She must face Luis Redhawk, a man with ancient and modern powers who has both drawn her and terrified her. As Valora delves into the mysteries of the Black Mountain and the evil that has been awakened, she discovers the connection between Luis and the dark force that threatens to unleash its power once more on Mount Sangre.

I enjoyed the balanced mix of romance and intrigue in this book. While it delivered on the romance aspect, I wish there had been more depth and exploration of the historical elements. However, one downside was the lack of subtlety in identifying the villain, which made it frustrating to see the heroine interacting with him despite the obvious warning signs.

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Review: Cinder (The Lunar Chronicles, #1) by Marissa Meyer

Cinder by Marissa Meyer
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Cinder, a gifted mechanic in New Beijing, is also a cyborg. She's reviled by her stepmother and blamed for her stepsister's sudden illness. But when her life becomes entwined with the handsome Prince Kai's, she finds herself at the centre of a violent struggle between the desires of an evil queen - and a dangerous temptation. Cinder is caught between duty and freedom, loyalty and betrayal. Now she must uncover secrets about her mysterious past in order to protect Earth's future.

This story was an imaginative take on the classic Cinderella story. I like how the author was also able to weave in some other aspects of different fairy tales. I felt so bad for Cinder. There were definitely some heart wrenching parts.

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